Are you looking for a simple yet rewarding DIY project that can add a touch of rustic charm to your home? Look no further than this scrap wood wall mount book shelf! It’s a project that even a novice DIY enthusiast can tackle, and the results are incredibly satisfying. As an advocate for upcycling and creative expression here at Robert Kline Art, I’m excited to guide you through the process.
Gathering Your Supplies and Tools
Before we begin, let’s gather our tools and materials. It’s always a good idea to have everything ready at arm’s reach. For this project, you’ll need:
- Scrap Wood: This is the heart of our project! The beauty of this bookshelf lies in its use of reclaimed wood, giving it a unique, rustic aesthetic. I used 1x4s and some ripped scraps around 2.5 inches wide.
- Mitre Saw: This tool will help you make accurate cross cuts for your shelves and supports.
- Measuring Tape and Pencil: Accurate measurements are key to a successful project.
- Drill and Pre-drill Bit: This will make driving screws easier and prevent the wood from splitting.
- 2-inch Screws: These will hold everything together securely.
- Wood Glue: Adding a bit of wood glue alongside your screws makes for an even stronger bond.
- Sander and Sandpaper (optional): Depending on the condition of your scrap wood, you might need to give it a good sanding to remove splinters and smooth out rough edges.
- Paint or Stain (optional): This step is entirely up to you! Add a touch of color or leave the wood natural – it’s your bookshelf, your style!
Planning and Cutting
Remember those inspiring plans from Ana White that sparked this project? I found myself drawn to her cabin plate rack design. While I stuck closely to her original vision, I made some adjustments based on the lengths of scrap wood I had available. It’s a good reminder that DIY is about adaptation and making ideas your own.
For this project, I aimed for a bookshelf roughly 53 1/2 inches tall and 39 inches wide. The shelves were spaced about 13 1/4 inches apart, with a cute little fence on top, sitting 2 inches above the top shelf.
Scrap Wood Book Shelf Supplies| Mamas Dance-1
- Measure and Mark: Based on your desired dimensions, measure and mark your scrap wood pieces.
- Cut the Boards: Using your mitre saw, carefully cut the boards according to your markings.
Assembling Your Book Shelf
This is where your project starts to take shape!
- Pre-drill and Assemble: Pre-drilling holes will help prevent the wood from splitting when you drive in the screws. Apply a dab of wood glue to each joint for extra strength, then secure the pieces together using your 2-inch screws.
- Attach the Fence (optional): To prevent books from taking a tumble, consider adding a front fence. I used scrap 1x2s and attached them with staples and wood glue.
Scrap Wood Book Shelf Supplies| Mamas Dance-2
Scrap Wood Book Shelf Supplies| Mamas Dance-3
Adding a Personal Touch
Now for the fun part – personalizing your creation!
- Sanding: If you used rough scrap wood, now is the perfect time to give it a good sanding. This will smooth out any imperfections and prepare the surface for painting or staining (if desired).
- Painting or Staining: Unleash your creativity! Choose a color that complements your existing décor or opt for a classic wood stain to enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain.
For my bookshelf, I opted for two coats of “Simplicity,” a vibrant white chalk paint from a Canadian company called Country Chic. It’s amazing how a fresh coat of paint can transform a piece!
Reading Corner, Desk, Bookshelf, Planked Walls| Mamas Dance-6
Displaying Your Handiwork
With your bookshelf complete, it’s time to find the perfect spot to display your handiwork and your favorite reads. This rustic piece adds character to any room, from a cozy reading nook to a child’s bedroom.
White Wall Book Shelf, Kids Room| Mamas Dance-1
Conclusion: Embrace the Joy of DIY
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating something beautiful and functional with your own two hands. Remember, crafting isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the journey, the challenges, and the small victories along the way.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those scrap wood pieces, dust off your tools, and embark on this rewarding DIY adventure. And don’t forget to share your creations with us here at Robert Kline Art. We’d love to see your unique take on this project!
Looking for more inspiration?
- Explore our website for unique, handcrafted gifts and DIY project ideas.
- Share this post with a fellow craft enthusiast who would love to tackle this project.
- Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience building your scrap wood bookshelf. We love hearing from our readers!